Wisconsin Farmers Experience 4.6 Days of Suitable Fieldwork Last Week

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 -- 8:01 AM

(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) For the week ending 17 November 2024, Wisconsin had an average of 4.6 days suitable for fieldwork, as reported by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, the state experienced above-average temperatures, with precipitation mainly affecting southern and eastern regions.

Farmers focused on harvesting late-planted corn for grain and carried out fall tillage when conditions permitted. Additional tasks included carrot harvesting, maintaining cranberry bogs, supplemental feeding of livestock, and applying manure.

Topsoil moisture levels were evaluated as 2% very short, 26% short, 66% adequate, and 6% surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were recorded at 8% very short, 34% short, 55% adequate, and 2% surplus.

The harvest of corn for grain reached 94% completion, significantly ahead of both last year’s progress and the five-year average. The moisture content of harvested corn held steady at 16%.

Meanwhile, 94% of winter wheat had emerged, two days ahead of the previous year. However, the condition of the winter wheat crop was rated as 73% good to excellent, a slight drop of 1% compared to the previous week.

Progress in fall tillage reached 81%, marking steady advancements across the state. The following is a summary of crop progress across Wisconsin districts:

• Corn for grain: 94% complete statewide, with district completion rates ranging from 93% in the north-central region to 97% in the southeast.
• Fall tillage: 81% complete statewide, varying from 78% in the northeast to 88% in the northwest.
• Winter wheat emergence: 94% complete statewide, with near-total emergence in most districts.

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